Is Publishing Necessary for Becoming a Professor After Completing a Ph.D.?

There's an old saying in academia: "Publish or Perish."

Publish or Perish

This saying holds true in most cases. For tenure-track and non-tenure-track positions, particularly at research-intensive universities, a candidate's academic publications are a critical factor in determining their suitability for a professorship. With a Ph.D. being the terminal degree in most disciplines, applicants are expected to have a substantial body of research to support their tenure applications.

University Expectations

However, the expectations for academic publications can vary significantly between different types of universities and departments. In the United States, for instance, a Ph.D. is the most common requirement for a professorship. Nevertheless, there are exceptions:

Notable Individuals: In some cases, individuals with significant notoriety or a unique background might be granted exceptions, even if they lack extensive publication records. Masters Degree Faculty: Some universities allow faculty members with only a master's degree to focus solely on teaching. However, these individuals rarely earn tenure, and they are not valued as highly as tenure-track faculty with Ph.D.s. Ph.D. Holders on Non-Tenure-Track Positions: Even Ph.D. holders may struggle to secure tenure at research-intensive universities, as teaching priorities often take a back seat.

Impact of Publications

Peer-reviewed journal publications serve as a testament to the relevance, authority, and quality of one's work. Being published in such journals is a significant achievement that reflects well on the candidate's scholarly contributions and can greatly enhance their academic CVs. This is particularly important when applying for postdoctoral positions and university faculty roles.

Factors Influencing Academic Appointments

While publications are a key factor, the process of obtaining academic positions is often influenced by many other variables:

Internal Competition: Many highly competitive fields have a far greater number of applicants than available positions. Administrative Decisions: Academic appointments are often made through internal nominations, rather than through the advertised application process. Luck and Connections: A significant degree of randomness can influence the outcome, making the process feel like a lottery rather than a straightforward meritocracy.

It's important for academic professionals to recognize that many subjective and unpredictable factors can impact their career progression. Aspiring scholars should maintain a balanced perspective, understanding that their career advancement is influenced by a complex interplay of merit, luck, and social dynamics.

Conclusion

Publishing is undoubtedly crucial for securing a professorship, especially in competitive research-intensive universities. However, it is one of many factors that play a role in determining academic appointments. Future professors should focus on building a strong portfolio of research and publications, while also recognizing the nuanced and sometimes unpredictable nature of the academic job market.